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If you are looking for the best baitcasting reel under $50, then you are at the right place.
A baitcaster can give you an extra level of accuracy, capacity and power compared to a spinning reel and if you watch to fish for bass,catfish and other large fish then the baitcasting reel will be a very important tool to have.
This is because it is a lot quicker and would allow you to react quickly by offering quick retrieval or controlling your thumb when wrestling with a big fish once the line has been cast.
Especially for beginners, finding the best baitcasting reel under $50 can really help to kick your fishing into the next level.
Most people often misinterpret price for quality however, you can confidently go for a cheaper baitcasting reel without compromising with the quality.
A good baitcasting reel is user friendly, accurate, reliable and comfortable support.
It’s always important that you pay attention to the features that actually define the quality of a great baitcasting reel.
In this article, we have reviewed some of the best and yet affordable baitcasting reels you can find on the market. This will allow you to make the right choice that meets your needs rather than choosing a random baitcasting reel which will not perform well.
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Reviews Of The Best Baitcasting Reel Under $50
Abu Garcia Black Max
This baitcasting reel generally requires minimal maintenance even if you use it in tough fishing environments.
It delivers amazing results even in saltwater and in addition to this, it offers resistance-free casting, smooth and quick retrieve. Once you’ve found settings optimal for your use, it will not backlash.
The Abu Garcia Black Max is an excellent reel when it comes to its performance. You can use it all day without casting and retrieving without putting any stress on your arms as it comes with a super lightweight graphite coupled with robust systems for bedraggling and brakes.
KastKing Royale Legend
This reel has a smooth retrieve with reliable drag controls and a hand grip to ensure anglers are very comfortable with it.
Anglers have optimum control overcasting as it features both magnetic and centrifugal brakes. It’s 7:1 gear ratio is capable of taking out the heaviest fish right out of the water. In addition to this, the reel features the 4 plate Carbon fiber star drag system which is strong enough to deliver 17.5 lbs of drag.
This baitcasting reel is ideal for both professionals and hobbyists. When it comes to beginners, it features a user-friendly design and easy controls so they won’t have to face a lot of difficulties finding their way around it.
In addition to this, it can deliver an incredible drag combined with its sturdy build and a swift drag ratio.
Always keep in mind that fishing for the big fish with a reliable and affordable reel is the best and every angler’s dream.
Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel
Unlike other baitcasting reels that come with plastic thumb bars, this reel desires an aluminium thumb bar that is very durable and won’t break. In addition to this, the drag doesn’t slip against the weight of the fish.
The Piscifun Torrent Baitcasting Reel comes with features that provide power and great leverage that work fine against 5 pounder fish and more. When it comes to the drag system, it features the three-layered high-grade drag washers which when combined with the brass gear and extended handle, gives anglers maximum control.
This baitcasting reel is suitable for anglers of all levels however, it will specifically suit those looking for more comfort at a good price point. It also works great for both seawater and freshwater fisheries.
This affordable baitcasting reel will work very well and offer you a great value for your money.
Shakespeare Excursion Fishing Reel
This baitcasting reel comes with a drag system which is very effective against fish as heavy as 15 lbs. Although the ball bearings are enough for an effortless, smooth cast, they work exceptionally well to prevent backlash.
The Shakespeare Fishing Reel features the aluminium spool which is deep enough to hold an angler’s line in place.
This reel is light as it weighs only 6.4 oz however, it supports both pinion and brass gears that ensure optimum performance.
This affordable baitcasting reel is suitable from anglers of all levels, it is very user-friendly for children. This means just like adults, children can have a high performance reel to enable them to learn and master a hobby.
Anglers do not have to worry about fishing for long hours as the reel is lightweight and the drag is powerful enough not to stress out their hands.
Cadence CB5 Baitcaster Reel
In a sleek matte black frame, the Cadence CB5 delivers great performance. The CB5’s aluminum crank shaft is 60% lighter than brass and contributes its lightweight performance.
It features 7 stainless steel ball bearings and one quick anti-reverse bearing that are smooth, sturdy, and corrosion resistant.
Buying considerations for the best baitcasting rel under $50
Type Of Fish & Environment
Spinning reels are basically known to be for saltwater and baitcasters for freshwater. However this is not always the case. The reason is, round baitcasters often work better than spinning reels in the saltwater.
Baitcasters are better for catching bigger fish as they are good with a heavier line. For instance, bass fishers like 14 pundits test and even heavier.
Reel Features
To be able to hold a larger line, baitcaster spools are large. It’s important that you don’t opt in for a reel that is too heavy as that could throw off the balance of your whole rod.
You have to make sure the body is very tough to ensure that the reel will last Friday a long period of time.
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Drag System (Front And Rear Drag)
Although a drag system is meant to stop fish, it doesn’t mean it should be at its strongest setting. It is important to note that the drag system should never be fully set else this may break the line.
It’s quite difficult to get to the right setting that will usually allow the fish to go on a run and get tired but still have enough stopping power to reel it in.
To make last minute adjustments to the drag, a rear drag dial is often used while a drag on the front is often used to set a general drag level.
Ball Bearings
To reduce friction between moving pieces, ball bearings are often used inside a reel.
Bearings that support the pinion gear are the best for friction reduction and they are often made of stainless steel and sometimes, other materials.
Most bearings are usually shielded or double-shielded to protect them from corrosion.
Brake System
The brake system is what keeps tension on the line to make sure it doesn’t fly off the reel or go into complete free-spin, resulting in knits on the line or backlash.
To make this possible, a magnetic system is featured that can be adjusted by pressing in buttons and this will activate the number of magnets to create more or less tension on the line.
Handle Size & Orientation
When it comes to the handles, a larger handle is more comfortable to grip.
Most times, a longer handle can give an angler more torque which results in them having enough power to turn the reel against a fighting fish.
Grips on the handle tips are also very important as help anglers keel going against a struggling target.
Although some reels come only in right-handed models, that is gradual changing with models coming up that accommodate both right-handed and left-handed anglers.
Line Capacity
The size of the reel changes with the amount of line that can fit onto its spool.
Although it is not advisable for you to us err heaviest one, baitcasters are better suited to hold Kreme line.
In order to catch bass and other species, many anglers have figured out and even made instructions in that regard.
Price & Warranty
This article is solely for baitcasting reels under $50 but it’s important to note that even within that price range, there are differences in price.
For example, reels that usually come around $30 feature plastic elements which are generally great for beginners as they mostly perform well.
Reels that come closer to $50 are mainly meant to be used for big targets and they are usually durable.
Most reels come with a 1 year limited warranty.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the main difference between cheap (under $50) & expensive models?
In terms of performance, baitcasting reels under $50 are a good way to start learning angling with minimal investment.
On the other hand, the more expensive models may have more metal parts, be more weather-treated, be larger and come with many other additional features.
Can I use a baitcaster under $50 in saltwater?
This will be based on personal preference as most times, baitcasting reels are okay to use in saltwater. However, you have to make sure it’s well cleaned afterwards if you’re returning it to freshwater.
How do I choose a suitable line for baitcasters?
You should always choose a line based on the capacity and material of the baitcasting reel. Braided and Fusion, monofilament and fluorocarbon lines are all fine.
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Conclusion
It is easy to find yourself inclined towards buying more expensive baitcasting reels because of the belief that cheaper ones are not of a high quality. However, knowing your need and doing a little research regarding the best options available can greatly help you get an amazing reel without spending a lot of money.
This is why we put this article together and we hope it guides you in making a good choice when it comes to the selecting the best baitcasting reels under $50
